Falkirk ready for their biggest week of the season, says James McDonaugh

Chris McCall

James McDonaugh believes Falkirk’s mental strength will be crucial in Sunday’s crunch match at Queen of the South and the Hampden semi-final against Hibs six days later.

The Bairns assistant boss has been impressed with how his players have adapted to enforced changes to the team in recent weeks and continued to grind out a series of victories as the season nears its climax.

“We’re fighting on two fronts,” he said. “The boys have been training hard this week, they want their season to carry on as long as possible.

“Sunday will be our seventh game in 23 days. We’ve been relying on the strength in depth of our squad to get us through. They’ve proved their toughness.

“Queens are a tough outfit, very well organised - but we’ve proved we can win there.”

Falkirk, Queens and Hibs are battling to secure places in the Championship play-off places, with the Edinburgh club being dragged back into the fight following a slump in form.

The Bairns face Alan Stubbs’ men next week for a place in the Scottish Cup final.

“It’s a massive week,” McDonaugh added. “But we’re ready for it.”

Rory Loy remains injured and is not expected to feature against Queens, but Kieran Duffie may remain to the squad for the Palmerston visit.